It has come to light that there is an error with a research paper published by The BMJ on 1 May 2024: Efficacy of psilocybin for treating symptoms of depression: systematic review and meta-analysis .
The journal is investigating the problem together with the authors, and the journal has placed an expression of concern on the paper.
The study analysed data from randomised trials of psilocybin for the treatment of depression in adults. A methodological concern has been raised about an error in the calculation of standardised mean differences. This is likely to have overestimated the benefits of psilocybin.
The authors are reviewing and responding to the error and its implications for the findings and conclusions of the paper. The authors’ response will be reviewed by The BMJ who will decide what further action is needed.
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The BMJ
Systematic review
People
https://www.bmj.com/content/385/bmj-2023-078084
4-May-2024